Elemental Kickboxing Leeds Newsletter

It’s been a dynamic and inspiring past few months at EF and EKA, with new grading formats, major renovations, community-driven fundraisers, and exciting training programs all in motion. From the success of March’s streamlined grading day to the upcoming black belt gradings in July, a brand-new self-defence course, and EKA being chosen as the training base for White Collar Fighter - Welcome to the EF and EKA Quarterly Newsletter!

We kicked off the year with a fresh approach to our grading process, introducing a streamlined one-day format that was rolled out in March. The change created a more focused experience for both students and instructors, and the results spoke for themselves — an amazing effort from everyone involved.

We expect only a few tweaks to the format with timing and marking criteria to allow us to pass on more detailed information to members giving them opportunities to improve their abilities even further.

If you’re working toward your next belt, mark your calendars: the next grading is scheduled for June 14th.

For those on the path to black belt, July is fast approaching! Our Black Belt Grading will take place on July 19th 08:00 - 13:00, and we’re already seeing some serious dedication from those preparing.

Those grading have already been sent their invite, however if you are not grading but wish to take part throughout to get an idea of what a black belt grading is like as well as assist in partner/sparring work and be there for all-round moral support, you can join in here

For all the information on this years black belt grading head over to the EKA site to learn more.

A huge thank you to everyone for their patience and support during our ongoing renovations. We’re thrilled to announce that the new entrance is now complete (just need some stairs so you don't fall in to the gym, so the original entrance is still in use for now) and the rest of the updates are nearly finished, such as the flooring.. The upgraded layout and improved flow are designed to create a more functional, welcoming space for training, events, and everyday classes.

It's amazing to see how far Elemental Fitness and the EKA has come from it's humble beginnings in a cramped backroom for PT sessions and school halls on a Tuesday and Thursday evenings for classes of no more than 8 individuals. Now to have a space created for ourselves to function as we see fit makes all the hard work and patience worth it.

In April we showcased the heart of EKA — literally — as our community came together for a three-hour kickboxing session in support of the Take Heart Charity. The energy was incredible, and we’re proud to have raised funds and awareness for a great cause. Final total came to £1208.00 which meant Josh donned his Scooby-doo costume as promised and battled not only other members in his sparring portion of the event but also the immense heat it created for 3 hours.

The first hour of pain (predominantly in the core region) came courtesy of David with intense line work and fitness drills, before James took over with his technically pad routines and questionable adult humor. before the aforementioned Josh in his costume (who would only go by Scooby on the day) finished everyone off with what seemed like endless body conditioning and sparring.

A special mention goes to Paul Glossop, who completed a jaw-dropping 100,000 punches for the fundraiser — an extraordinary individual effort that captured the spirit of giving and grit.

We’re excited to be the official training venue for this year’s White Collar Fighter program. Over the next eight weeks, participants will be training right here at EKA, bringing new faces, fresh energy, and some seriously focused sessions into our space. While the final fight night will be held at an external venue, we’re proud to be part of each fighter’s journey in the lead-up to the big event.

Our brand-new 6-week Self-Defense Course has started. Open to all levels, this course is designed to equip participants with effective, real-world techniques to build confidence and personal safety. It’s a great opportunity for anyone looking to gain practical skills in a supportive and empowering environment.

Run by experienced Thursday night instructor Josh, he has been taking those involved through ways of preventing harm done to oneself as well as what to do if you are ever in a sticky situation and there isn't a way out.

A great course that everyone should do at least once to understand how to protect themselves from harm.

With a fresh new look, an action-packed calendar, and the continued passion of our members and coaches, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years yet for EF and EKA. Thank you for being a part of it — let’s keep pushing forward, together.